ADHD Her Way

In this episode, Developmental Psychologist, Johanna Badenhorst reviews the movie Inside Out 2. She describes how the movie explores themes of adolescence, emotional complexity, identity formation, attachment, vulnerability, and self-compassion. Particularly how it relates to the experience of neurodivergent individuals. Overall, Inside Out 2 is described as a relatable and insightful perspectives on the human experience, and relevant to the experience of ADHDer and Autistic individuals. To sign up to our FREE ADHD webinar on July 29, 2024 follow this link: ⁠https://event.webinarjam.com/register/4/yp21pbw⁠ Also visit: ⁠⁠⁠www.holisticwellnesspsychology.com.au⁠⁠⁠ to get access to free ADHD guides, blogs and information on how to work with me. Keywords: Inside Out, movie review, neurodivergent community, adolescence, emotional complexity, identity formation, attachment, vulnerability, self-compassion Takeaways Inside Out 2 is a relatable and insightful movie that explores the human experience. The movie highlights the struggles of neurodivergent individuals in identifying and labeling their emotions. It emphasizes the importance of embracing vulnerability and recognizing it as a form of strength. Inside Out portrays the complexity of emotions during adolescence and the challenges of identity formation. The movie emphasizes the need to focus on controllable aspects of life and practice self-acceptance and self-discovery. Sound Bites: "Inside Out captures the complexity of adolescence and emotional turmoil." "The movie discusses emotional complexity and the depth of emotions during adolescence." "Inside Out highlights the central role of attachment figures in shaping identity." Chapters 00:00 Navigating the Complexity of Adolescence 03:18 Emotional Awareness and Regulation in Neurodivergent Individuals 07:20 Identity Formation and the Role of Attachment Figures 11:28 The Impact of Suppressing Emotions on Mental Health 15:05 Focusing on Controllables to Reduce Anxiety 16:13 The Challenges of Rejection-Sensitive Dysphoria 18:33 Celebrating Individuality and Supporting Differences

In this conversation, Psychologist Johanna Badenhorst interviews Athanasia McDonald, a strength and powerlifting coach specialising in working with pre and postnatal women. Athanasia shares her personal journey of being diagnosed with ADHD and how strength training has helped her manage her symptoms. They discuss the misconceptions around exercise and strength training, particularly for women and mothers. Athanasia emphasizes the importance of education, accessibility, and removing shame and guilt around exercise. They also touch on executive functioning challenges and provide strategies for staying motivated. Strength training is forgiving and allows for breaks without losing progress. Deloading frequently and pacing energy are important for ADHD individuals. Finding a supportive community or gym is crucial for staying on track. Self-compassion is key in managing ADHD and exercise. Movement should be empowering and individualized, not compared to others. Exercise can help ADHD women navigate motherhood and improve self-esteem. Reorganizing wardrobes can be a challenge for ADHD individuals. Athanasia McDonald can be found on Instagram at @Ath_strengthsyndicate and at bornstrong.com.au for pre and postnatal strength training in Canberra.What next?Follow @adhderway and contact us via hello@adhdherway.com We love to hear from you!Also visit: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.adhdherway.com ⁠⁠⁠⁠to get access to free ADHD guides, blogs and information on how to work with me.KeywordsADHD, strength training, powerlifting, coaching, pre and postnatal women, misconceptions, exercise, motivation, executive functioning, strength training, breaks, deloading, pacing energy, supportive community, self-compassion, movement, ADHD women, motherhood, reorganizing wardrobes, Athanasia McDonaldChapters00:00 Introduction and Background08:01 What is a Strength Coach?14:40 The Connection Between ADHD and Strength Training23:10 Specific ADHD strategies for executive functions and exercise23:19 Executive Functioning Challenges and Strategies28:45 The Importance of Self-Compassion34:20 Empowering Women

In this solo episode, Developmental Psychologist Johanna discusses how individuals with ADHD experience significantly more sleep-related issues compared to the general population, which can worsen ADHD symptoms. Common sleep problems, Revenge bedtime procrastination, Strategies to improve sleep, and introduces the brand new program with Dietitian Kiah which is being launched in July '24. What next?Follow @adhderway and contact us via hello@adhdherway.com We love to hear from you!Also visit: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.adhdherway.com ⁠⁠⁠⁠to get access to free ADHD guides, blogs and information on how to work with me.⁠KeywordsADHD, sleep, sleep problems, revenge bedtime procrastination, cognitive function, mood, daily functioning, sleep hygiene, routine, sleep environment, relaxation techniques, supplements, medicationTakeawaysADHD can significantly impact sleep patterns and worsen symptomsCommon sleep problems for individuals with ADHD include difficulty falling asleep, restless sleep, and difficulty waking upRevenge bedtime procrastination is a phenomenon where individuals with ADHD delay sleep to gain a sense of control and free timeSleep disturbances can impact cognitive function, mood, and daily functioningStrategies to improve sleep include maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, creating a calming sleep environment, practicing relaxation techniques, and considering supplements or medication under professional guidanceSound Bites"Revenge bedtime procrastination: delaying sleep to gain a sense of control and free time""Difficulty falling asleep: inability to shut off the mind""Restless sleep: tossing and turning, waking up easily"Follow @adhderway and email us via hello@holisticwellnesspsychology.com.au. We love to hear from you!Also visit: ⁠⁠www.holisticwellnesspsychology.com.au⁠⁠ to get access to free ADHD guides, blogs and information on how to work with me.

In this conversation, Johanna talks to Bree and Jade from Psych Hive who discuss their practice and their approach to neuro-affirmative care. They talk about the importance of centering the individual's lived experience and celebrating their strengths. They also discuss the process of ADHD and autism assessment, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive approach that considers the individual as a whole. They highlight the importance of medication, therapy, and self-advocacy in managing ADHD and autism. They also touch on the impact of neurodivergence on relationships and the involvement of families in the treatment process. The conversation explores the challenges and misconceptions surrounding ADHD support and assessment. It emphasizes the importance of neuro-affirming practices and the need for professionals to examine their own biases. The guests provide tips for professionals new to the ADHD assessment and intervention space, including seeking supervision and getting curious about high masking individuals. They also discuss the resources they have created, such as ebooks on ADHD and autism. The conversation concludes with a discussion on managing ADHD, including the use of body doubles, timers, and medication. Keywords neuro-affirmative care, ADHD, autism, assessment, medication, therapy, self-advocacy, families, relationships, ADHD, neuro-affirming practices, challenges, misconceptions, assessment, support, professionals, supervision, high masking individuals, resources, managing ADHD, body doubles, timers, medication Takeaways Neuro-affirmative care centers the individual's lived experience and celebrates their strengths. Comprehensive assessment for ADHD and autism considers the individual as a whole and looks at all aspects of their neurotype. Medication, therapy, and self-advocacy are important interventions for managing ADHD and autism. Families play a crucial role in the treatment process, and involving siblings in the conversation can be beneficial. Assessing a child for ADHD or autism can sometimes lead to the parent realizing their own neurodivergence. Neuro-affirming practices are crucial in supporting individuals with ADHD Professionals should examine their own biases and be open to learning and evolving their practice Supervision and seeking guidance from practitioners with lived experience can be valuable Managing ADHD can involve strategies such as body doubles, timers, and medication Resources such as ebooks can provide helpful information and support Sound Bites "Neuro-affirmative care centers the person's lived experience." "Comprehensive assessment looks at everything, not just one or two things." "Getting the right medication can be a game changer for ADHD." "Helping parents realize the strategies and accommodations they have in place for themselves" "Reflecting on their own neurotype can be a confronting experience for parents" "ADHD individuals struggle with initiating routines and change" You can find Brianna and Jade on https://thepsychhive.com/ and @thepsychive! Also check out their brand new resources and upcoming training and workshops. Follow @adhderway and contact us via hello@holisticwellnesspsychology.com.au. We love to hear from you! Also visit: ⁠www.holisticwellnesspsychology.com.au⁠ to get access to free ADHD guides, blogs and information on how to work with me.

In this conversation, Johanna Badenhorst discusses the impact of hormonal changes on ADHD symptoms in women. She shares her personal journey with ADHD and hormonal conditions, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and how they have affected her ADHD symptoms. Johanna highlights the role of estrogen and progesterone in regulating neurotransmitters and how fluctuations in these hormones can lead to changes in ADHD symptoms. She emphasizes the need for more research on the connection between hormones and ADHD in women and the importance of personalized treatment and self-advocacy.KeywordsADHD, hormonal changes, women, estrogen, progesterone, neurotransmitters, symptoms, research, treatment, self-advocacyTakeawaysHormonal changes, particularly fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone, can impact ADHD symptoms in women.Rising estrogen levels during the follicular phase can improve mood and executive function, but may increase impulsivity and hyperactivity.Declining estrogen and increasing progesterone during the luteal phase can lead to emotional dysregulation, working memory problems, and premenstrual symptoms.Hormonal shifts during puberty, pregnancy, postpartum, and perimenopause/menopause can exacerbate ADHD symptoms.There is a need for more research on the impact of hormones on ADHD in women and personalized treatment strategies.Tracking menstrual cycles and symptoms can help women with ADHD better understand their own bodies and advocate for appropriate support and treatment.Sound Bites"The changes in our estrogen levels really impact our executive functioning and our mood regulation.""Perimenopausal and menopausal phase, the decline in estrogen can worsen ADHD symptoms.""It probably helps to learn about this to notice patterns for yourself, even if the research is slim."What next?Follow @adhderway and contact us via hello@adhdherway.com We love to hear from you!Also visit: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.adhdherway.com ⁠⁠⁠⁠to get access to free ADHD guides, blogs and information on how to work with me.Chapters00:00 - Johanna's Entrepreneur Journey and Hormonal Struggles04:41- The Vital Connection: Hormones and ADHD Symptoms

SummaryIn this episode Johanna and Elaine from Third Place Therapy discuss trauma, attachment styles, and the intersectionality of neurodivergence, attachment, and trauma. Elaine provides a definition of trauma as anything that overwhelms our ability to cope, emphasising that trauma is subjective and unique to each individual. They also explore the different attachment styles (anxious, avoidant, secure, and disorganized) and how they can impact relationships, particularly in the context of neurodivergence. Additionally, they touch on the use of EMDR therapy as a tool for healing trauma and the importance of neuro-affirming approaches in therapy. In this conversation, Johanna and Elaine discuss the intersection of attachment styles and neurodivergence. They explore how neurodivergent individuals may struggle more with attachment styles and tend to have more insecure attachments. They also discuss the importance of neuro-affirming approaches in attachment work and the need for adjustments in understanding and meeting the needs of neurodivergent children. The conversation highlights the Circle of Security framework and the four S's of secure attachment: being seen, soothed, safe, and secure. They also touch on the impact of trauma on attachment and the overlap between trauma symptoms and ADHD. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the importance of therapy in unpacking and healing attachment and trauma issues.Keywordstrauma, attachment styles, ADHD, autism, CPTSD, EMDR therapy, neurodivergence, attachment styles, neurodivergence, insecure attachments, neuro-affirming, Circle of Security, four S's of secure attachment, trauma, ADHD, therapyTakeaways-Trauma is subjective and unique to each individual, defined as anything that overwhelms our ability to cope.-Attachment styles (anxious, avoidant, secure, disorganized) can impact relationships, especially in the context of neurodivergence.-EMDR therapy, which stands for eye movement desensitization and reprocessing, can be an effective tool for healing trauma.-Neuro-affirming approaches in therapy are important for individuals with neurodivergence.-There is an intersectionality between ADHD, autism, and CPTSD, and individuals with ADHD are more prone to experiencing trauma. -Neurodivergent individuals may struggle more with attachment styles and tend to have more insecure attachments.-Neuro-affirming approaches are important in attachment work, especially for neurodivergent children.-There is overlap between trauma symptoms and ADHD, and it is important to consider both in therapy.Sound Bites"Trauma can be defined as anything that overwhelms our ability to cope.""Trauma can be something that is too much too soon, too much for too long, or too little for too long.""EMDR stands for eye movement desensitization and reprocessing, and it helps facilitate memory reconsolidation.""Being seen, being soothed, being safe and secure."To get more information about Elaine and her services visit @thirdplacetherapy or www.thirdplacetherapy.comWhat next?Follow @adhderway and contact us via hello@adhdherway.com We love to hear from you!Also visit: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.adhdherway.com ⁠⁠⁠⁠to get access to free ADHD guides, blogs and information on how to work with me.

In this episode, Johanna Badenhorst discusses the challenges faced by women with ADHD and how to empower themselves. She talks about the imposter syndrome and the importance of self-compassion. Johanna also explores reframing ADHD behaviours as strengths and aligning with personal values. She emphasizes the need for flexibility and acceptance in navigating life with ADHD.What next?Follow @adhderway and contact us via hello@adhdherway.com We love to hear from you!Also visit: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.adhdherway.com ⁠⁠⁠⁠to get access to free ADHD guides, blogs and information on how to work with me.Keywords: ADHD, women, empowerment, imposter syndrome, self-compassion, reframing, strengths, values, flexibilityTakeawaysWomen with ADHD often struggle with imposter syndrome and low self-confidence.Practicing self-compassion is key to building resilience and embracing strengths.Reframing ADHD behaviors as strengths can empower individuals.Aligning with personal values helps navigate life with ADHD.Flexibility and acceptance are important in managing ADHD challenges.Sound Bites"It's a duck peddling a million times an hour.""Self-compassion is key to building resilience.""Turn ADHD traits into strengths."

Developmental Psychologist, Johanna interviews Dr. Hayley Quinn, who is a clinical psychologist and anti-burnout business coach, shares her journey of discovering her neurodivergence as an autistic and ADHD individual. She discusses the challenges of living in a neurotypical world and the importance of authenticity and self-compassion. Dr. Quinn emphasizes the need to prioritize well-being and sustainable practices in business and personal life. She also opens up about her experience with chronic illness and the impact it had on her work and personal life. In this conversation, Hayley and Johanna discuss the importance of self-compassion and authenticity for neurodivergent individuals. Hayley shares her personal journey of discovering her neurodivergent identity and the impact it had on her mental health. They also discuss the challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals in the education system and workplace, and the need for greater acceptance and accommodation. Hayley highlights the importance of representation and reducing stigma around neurodivergence. They also touch on the role of self-compassion in creating a sustainable and fulfilling business. Overall, the conversation emphasizes the importance of self-acceptance and embracing one's unique strengths and challenges.Keywordsneurodivergence, authenticity, self-compassion, burnout, business, chronic illness, neurodivergence, self-compassion, authenticity, mental health, education system, workplace, representation, stigma, acceptance, accommodation, businessTakeawaysDiscovering and embracing one's neurodivergence can lead to a more fulfilling and authentic life.Authenticity and vulnerability in professional settings can inspire others and create a more compassionate and inclusive environment.Living in alignment with one's true self and prioritizing well-being is essential for preventing burnout.Neurodivergent individuals often face challenges in navigating a neurotypical world and may need to develop strategies to adapt and thrive.Coexisting chronic health conditions are common among neurodivergent individuals and can significantly impact work and personal life. Self-compassion and authenticity are crucial for the well-being of neurodivergent individuals.The education system and workplace need to be more accepting and accommodating of neurodivergent individuals.Representation and reducing stigma around neurodivergence are important for creating a more inclusive society.Self-compassion plays a key role in creating a sustainable and fulfilling business.Embracing one's unique strengths and challenges is essential for self-acceptance and personal growth.Sound Bites"I think I've been dropped off on the wrong planet.""Authenticity is one of my highest values.""If I can live in a very authentic way, then that models to other people that they can.""I'm valuable no matter what. I'm enough as I am. I'm lovable as I am."Chapters00:00 - Introduction and Background12:31 - Authenticity and Professionalism25:46 - Chronic Illness and Impact36:13 - Representation and Stigma44:22 - Creating a Sustainable Business53:01 - Inspiring and Empowering OthersVisit Dr Hayley D Quinn via www.drhayleydquinn.com. Or follow her via Instagram @drhayleydquinn.What next?Follow @adhderway and contact us via hello@adhdherway.com We love to hear from you!Also visit: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.adhdherway.com ⁠⁠⁠to get access to free ADHD guides, blogs and information on how to work with me.

In this episode, Psychologist Johanna discusses burnout and the boom-bust cycle, particularly in individuals with ADHD. Johanna emphasizes the importance of recognizing the early signs of burnout and implementing strategies to prevent or recover from it. She introduces the concept of a pacing system, which involves monitoring activity levels, setting achievable goals based on energy levels, taking regular breaks, and practicing flexible scheduling. Other strategies include mindfulness and meditation, physical activity, sleep hygiene, engaging in a supportive community, and monitoring diet and nutrition.Keywords: burnout, boom-bust cycle, ADHD, pacing system, energy levels, productivity, early signs, strategies, mindfulness, meditation, physical activity, sleep hygiene, supportive community, diet, nutritionTakeawaysBurnout is a state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion caused by excessive and prolonged stress.The boom-bust cycle in individuals with ADHD is characterised by intense bursts of energy and productivity followed by a sharp decline in energy and productivity, leading to exhaustion.Recognising the early signs of burnout is crucial for prevention and recovery.Implementing a pacing system can help balance activity levels and manage energy more sustainably.Strategies for preventing burnout include mindfulness and meditation, physical activity, sleep hygiene, engaging in a supportive community, and monitoring diet and nutrition."Burnout is a state of emotional, physical and mental exhaustion caused by excessive and prolonged stress.""The boom-bust cycle is characterized by intense bursts of energy, focus or creativity known as hyper fixation or hyper focus.""The main components of a pacing system involve monitoring current activity levels, setting achievable goals based on energy levels, and taking regular breaks."Chapters00:00 Understanding Burnout and the Boom-Bust Cycle03:09 Implementing a Pacing System for Energy Management06:13 Planning Your Day Around Energy Levels08:14 The Importance of Sleep, Diet, and SupportWhat next?Follow @adhderway and contact us via hello@adhdherway.com We love to hear from you!Also visit: ⁠⁠⁠⁠www.adhdherway.com ⁠⁠to get access to free ADHD guides, blogs and information on how to work with me.

In this episode Psychologist Johanna interviews Jeana Westcott (a licensed marriage and family therapist from America) who specialises in couples where one or both partners have ADHD. We discuss the impact of the pandemic on relationships, the personal and professional experience of ADHD, the grief and late diagnosis of ADHD, rejection sensitivity (RSD) and emotional dysregulation in ADHD couples, managing emotional dysregulation in therapy, higher divorce rates and relationship difficulties in ADHD couples, the imbalance of labor in ADHD couples, unhelpful relationship patterns and communication issues, vulnerability and validation in ADHD relationships, overexposure and emotional dumping in ADHD relationships, and individual work and building self-confidence. This conversation explores the challenges and dynamics of relationships affected by ADHD. The discussion covers topics such as new and old relationships, the impact of ADHD on couples with young children, the pressure of parenthood, and the desire for connection. The conversation also delves into the importance of support and empathy, working through relationship challenges, and shifting to a 'we' perspective. Additionally, the conversation offers advice for newly diagnosed individuals in relationships and recommends resources for couples affected by ADHD.TakeawaysThe (COVID) pandemic has intensified relationship dynamics and family dynamics for ADHD couples, leading to increased conflict, stress, and seperation.Late diagnosis of ADHD can bring a sense of grief and a reevaluation of past experiences, highlighting missed opportunities for understanding and support.RSD and emotional dysregulation are common challenges in ADHD relationships, leading to criticism, defensiveness, and blame.Therapy for ADHD couples focuses on improving communication, understanding relationship dynamics, and finding a balance of labor and responsibilities.Validation, vulnerability, and self-confidence are important factors in building healthier and more fulfilling relationships for ADHD couples. ADHD can impact various aspects of relationships, including dating, parenthood, and overall dynamics.Support and empathy are crucial in navigating the challenges of ADHD in relationships.Both partners play a role in the relationship and need to be willing to work on themselves and the dynamics of the relationship.Understanding and accepting an ADHD diagnosis can lead to better self-awareness and relationship dynamics.Find Jeane Westcott on social media via @luminatetherapymn Follow @adhderway and contact us via hello@adhdherway.com We love to hear from you!Also visit: ⁠⁠⁠⁠www.adhdherway.com ⁠⁠to get access to free ADHD guides, blogs and information on how to work with me.